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{
    "id": 511914,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/511914/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 276,
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    "content": "Article 73 of the Constitution makes it clear that we have been given the power to serve and not rule over anybody. It even further makes it clearer because we must set an example. For us to preside over a House where we pass laws that will demand others to behave in a particular manner, we must always go back to Article 73(1)(a)(i) – (iv) and live by the spirit of that Article that says:- “Authority assigned to a State officer – (a) is a public trust to be exercised in a manner that- (i) is consistent with the purpose and objects of this Constitution; (ii) demonstrates respect for the people; (iii) brings honour to the nation and dignity to the office; and (iv) promotes public confidence and integrity of the office.” Mr. Temporary Speaker, Sir, more often than not, as elected leaders, we have violated every single sentence in this particular Article. We have become more of rulers than servants; persons who disregard the public. We do not respect the people and we actually demand respect from them yet they are the ones who have hired us to be public officers. We have behaved in a manner that does not bring honour to the nation and dignity to the office. One scholar said that a leader of integrity is not the one that just operates around the line between wrong and right, but he must be far away from that line. He must be someone who operates in the bigger operational space where values, good manners, respect for the people and fear and reverence of those who elected him prevail. Article 75 of the Constitution says:- “A State officer shall behave, whether in public and official life, or in association with other persons, in a manner …” Compared to what we used to have before, this Constitution concerns itself with behaviours and manners. The question we should be asking ourselves is not just about whether we are being debated in relation to corruption. It is about even when an elected State officer should be found quarreling with his spouse, shouting, calling people names using foul language or being drunk and disorderly. If a public or State officer is found sleeping in a trench, that should actually be the worst of the crimes imagined by this Constitution. Mr. Temporary Speaker, Sir, more often than not we run to other sections of the Constitution to run away from Articles 73 and 75. So, for us to prescribe certain requirements of what could be considered the “other offices” supporting this other State officers; the presidency, Parliament, the Judiciary and constitutional commissions, we must be a good example. We must have the confidence that Paul in the Bible had to tell Christians and those who wanted to follow him that; “You follow me as I follow Jesus.” We must be able to say to the rest of the nation; “Follow me as I follow the Constitution.” It must be so evident from a State officer or legislator that when people see you, they see a person who is following the Constitution. It becomes easy for them. Even if they have never read the Constitution, they will tell you: “Okay, instead of doing civic education, go and live by the principles of that Constitution and we will study you. We do not require you to come and explain to us what we need to do; we will just study your behaviour, manners, sacrifice, commitment and values.” The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposes only. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor, Senate."
}